Critical Study of Stoic Pragmatism as Consumption Ethics in the Post-Pandemic Era

Abstract

This paper shows that Stoic Pragmatism can be an alternative perspective to answer the exclusivity problem of consumption in consumeristic and minimalistic lifestyles, especially in the post-pandemic era. The main problem is an excessive desire to fulfill the lifestyle itself. Stoic Pragmatism allows the recognition of a specific way of life even though there is a consumption tendency and the placement of diverse desires. Stoic Pragmatism attitude is accepting and developing that diversity. The pragmatic dimensionemphasizes optimism and enthusiasm that departs from everyday life. The stoics dimension balances the pragmatic dimension with virtues and self-acceptance of some part of reality that must be acknowledged. Thus, an ethic of consumption promoted by Stoic Pragmatism can lead a person to live life towards the highest happiness, namely peace without distraction (ataraxia) and tranquility. Stoic Pragmatism offers an art of life that is both optimistic and realistic within existing limitations.